What can a tree or a butterfly teach about God? Can running around getting muddy be worship?
In Kingdom Kids each Sunday morning, we have been focusing on various aspects of creation in springtime. We are following this exploration as a springboard to discuss God and our relationship to him through Christ.
Our time begins with music, prayer, and a Bible lesson. The students then create watercolor paintings as they reflect on the teaching. From there, they head outside to explore and play. Often they bring back forest treasures or mysteries to add to our “nature shelf” in the classroom.
The seasons are ever-changing, yet God never changes. He ordained the order of the seasons, and we can trust him to remain faithful, steadfast, and loving.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Heb. 13:8 “Let us press on to know the Lord; his going out is sure as the dawn.” Hosea 6:3
Jesus’ parables used images from the natural world: seeds growing and withering, branches and vines. One psalmist used this analogy to describe one who follows the law: “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season…” Ps 1:3a
As children hear parables, memorize Psalms, and learn about the nature of God within this context, we hope that two things will happen. The first is that they may understand the concept more fully. They can see a tree and feel the strength God gave it when they grab it in a game of tag. We want to make the ideas tangible by letting them grasp bark in their hands, rather than trying to hold an image only in the imagination.
Secondly, as they physically experience the natural world in their learning, we hope that each time they encounter these elements again will be a touchstone to remind them of God’s faithfulness.
All creation truly does sing. Let’s get out there and join the chorus.
